Jaylen Brown was confident when asked whether he believes the Celtics will get to the 2019 NBA Finals -- and took umbrage with the suggestion that Boston is set to ascend only because of LeBron James' departure from the Eastern Conference.

Headlined by rivalries and reunions -- and plenty of LeBron -- the league's opening week, Christmas and MLK Day slates won't disappoint. Our panel breaks down the games we're circling on the NBA calendar.

The Los Angeles Lakers face the Golden State Warriors to highlight the Christmas Day schedule, and LeBron James' home debut as a Laker will be against the Houston Rockets on Oct. 20, the NBA announced in releasing part of its schedule.

Ron Hoskins/NBAE via Getty Images

Dream guard Tiffany Hayes gets big extension

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Tiffany Hayes, who has been an offensive powerhouse for the Atlanta Dream this season, has signed a new multiyear extension with Atlanta.

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Ron Hoskins/NBAE via Getty Images

Dream guard Tiffany Hayes gets big extension

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Tiffany Hayes, who has been an offensive powerhouse for the Atlanta Dream this season, has signed a new multiyear extension with Atlanta.

Calling his recovery from a knee infection a "long, rigorous process," Celtics star Kyrie Irving said he's eager to move forward and that he'll "easily" be ready for training camp.

Chris Forsberg ESPN Staff Writer

The Boston Celtics formally announced the signing of second-year guard Jabari Bird. The 56th pick in the 2017 draft, Bird spent last season as a two-way player for the Celtics. He makes the leap to the NBA roster this season.

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Chris Forsberg ESPN Staff Writer

Celtics formally announce the signing of Walt Lemon Jr to a two-way deal.